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3 ways to embrace change

In yoga, headstand is one of my favorite poses. It’s become both my party trick and my consolation prize—I might not be able to touch my toes, but I can balance on my head for half the class, no problem.

Except there is a problem. To get into headstand I flail my limbs, throwing my legs up and over, all while hoping for the best. One day my favorite instructor noticed this graceless habit and told me (kindly, but still!) to stop. As it turns out, headstand isn’t just about standing on your head. It’s also about journey into the pose. Headstand wouldn’t truly be mine until I’d nailed the transition, too.

Like most people, I’m not a huge fan of transitions or change. Saying goodbye to a loved one. Moving to a new city. Quitting a job. Even when we look forward new opportunities, that awkward in between, when we’re still adjusting and trying to find our way, is tough. Let’s just say there’s a reason the caterpillar’s transition into beautiful butterfly happens behind closed doors.

So how can we slow down, embrace , and welcome transition? By following these three simple rules.

1. We all know change is good, but this can be hard to remember when we’re in the middle of a painful transition. When you start to doubt yourself, remember that it’s not supposed to be easy, and trust that you have the strength and power to get through it.

2. Humans are constantly evolving and, as we stumble from one stage of life to the next, we’re going to make mistakes. Don’t view these missteps as proof that you’re on the wrong path. Forgive yourself, learn from them, and move on.

3. Sometimes we arrive at our destination, only to find we’re disappointed in where we land. It’s not good enough, not impressive enough, not far enough. At this point, your job is to accept where you are and celebrate the journey. Only then will you be ready to dive into the next transition.

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About Author

Christine Hennessey lives in coastal North Carolina, where she shares a home with two giant dogs, six chickens, and one beehive. Writing is her first love (she's a freelance writer and at work on a novel) but yoga is her second - she's been practicing since 2001, and her favorite poses are headstand, Warrior II, and side crow. She tweets too much for her own good at @TheNewChrissy..